William H. Frist: “on a separate issue, I want to take the opportunity to mention a meeting I am honored to be hosting later today with…”

“on a separate issue, I want to take the opportunity to mention a meeting I am honored to be hosting later today with Colombian President Alvaro Uribe, who is visiting our country and who will be here with us in the U.S. Capitol. He has served as Colombia's President since his election in 2002 and has done a remarkable job. I have had the privilege of meeting with President Uribe during visits, both here in Washington as well as on a trip that I took to Colombia in January of 2004. Throughout his term, the President has enjoyed high levels of popular support. He has earned it. He deserves it. He ran on the platform of public security and he has delivered. Since his election, Colombia has seen significant decreases in homicides, decreases in crime, decreases in acts of terrorism. Coca and poppy cultivation have decreased by over a third while he served in office. President Uribe has worked hard to promote greater respect for the rule of law, institute judicial reform, and improve Colombia's record on human rights. Colombia is one of our Nation's strongest allies and our close partnership is key to advancing U.S. interests in the Western Hemisphere. Colombia is the third most populous country in Latin America after Brazil and Mexico. Because of its size and strategic location, Colombia is a key player in regional issues. In addition, it has played an active role in multilateral institutions such as the United Nations and the Organization of American States.…”